PASS IT ON

Human Communication

📖 Definition

To pass something on means to convey or communicate information, an item, or a responsibility from one person to another.

Examples in context

📖 Definition

To pass something on means to convey or communicate information, an item, or a responsibility from one person to another.

📝 Grammar Info

Separable
Yes
The object can be placed between the verb and the particle.
Register
Neutral
Suitable for both formal and informal settings.
Transitive
Yes
Requires a direct object to complete its meaning.

📊 Conjugation Table

Tense Form Example
Present Simple pass it on She often forgets to pass it on when given a message.
Past Simple passed it on He passed it on to the committee yesterday.
Present Continuous passing it on They are busy passing it on to the entire team.
Present Perfect have passed it on I have passed it on to the director already.

💡 When to Use

conveying a message
Use when you need to transmit information from one person or group to another.
Example: "If you hear any updates, please pass it on to the team."
handing over responsibility
Use when transferring duties or roles from one person to another.
Example: "Once you complete the task, pass it on to the next shift leader."
sharing items
Use when physically transferring objects or possessions between people.
Example: "After finishing the book, pass it on to your sister."

⚠️ Common Mistakes

Using wrong object placement
❌ Wrong: Pass on it to Sarah.
✅ Correct: Pass it on to Sarah.
💡 Tip: Place 'it' between 'pass' and 'on'.
Incorrect transitive usage
❌ Wrong: Pass on to the team.
✅ Correct: Pass it on to the team.
💡 Tip: Always include a direct object.
Wrong tense usage
❌ Wrong: I pass it on yesterday.
✅ Correct: I passed it on yesterday.
💡 Tip: Match tense with time reference.

"In life's journey, the wisdom we acquire is only meaningful if we pass it on to future generations, creating a lasting legacy."

In Context

During the Blitz in World War II, British citizens relied heavily on information about air raids. A crucial task was to pass it on. Air Raid Wardens, tasked with alerting neighborhoods, risked everything to ensure each warning was adequately communicated. Sally Trumble, a warden, was known for her dedication and bravery. In 1940, when communication lines were disrupted during a fierce bombing in London, it was Sally who managed to pass it on. Sprinting through bomb-ridden streets, she reached neighborhoods just in time to lead many to safety. Her efforts extended beyond sirens; she helped pass on vital shelter locations and medical assistance information, ensuring her community stayed informed. Despite personal loss during the raids, Sally continued to focus on her role, determined never to falter in her duty. After the war, her selfless service became a source of inspiration for many. Her gatherings, where war stories and resilience were passed on to younger generations, became historical accounts that shaped community spirit. Sally's commitment to passing it on symbolizes a broader narrative where unity and information save lives.

Practice

PASS IT ON - IN PRACTICE

Study Method Proposal

  1. Listen and repeat the audio as many times as needed to improve your pronunciation
  2. Use the audio as a dictation exercise, trying to write what you hear and understand
  3. Create a new sentence following the structure of the example sentences

Examples in Context

  • 1
    Listen to example

    The coach advised her to pass it on, ensuring the new player felt included.

    Bridging the Distance
  • 2
    Listen to example

    After reading the news article, John knew he had to pass it on to his family.

    Bridging the Distance
  • 3
    Listen to example

    Cultural traditions are vital; we must pass it on so they are not forgotten.

    Bridging the Distance

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

relay transmit

Antonyms

withhold

Quick Check

Complete the sentence with the correct phrasal verb:

"Please make sure to ___ the invitation."

passing it
pass it on
passes on
pass on

❓ Frequently Asked Questions about Pass It On

What is the origin of pass it on?

+
The phrase 'pass it on' dates back to the early 20th century. It originated from the idea of physically or verbally conveying information or items from one person to another in a straightforward manner.

Can pass it on be used in formal and informal contexts?

+
'Pass it on' is appropriate in both formal and informal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversation as well as in business and professional settings, due to its versatile nature.

What is the difference between pass it on and relay?

+
'Pass it on' often implies directly handing over something, whether information or items. In contrast, 'relay' suggests a more structured or systematic method of passing information, usually through a series of stages.

Related Phrasal Verbs

Explore more phrasal verbs in our dictionary:

phrasal-verb-hand-downphrasal-verb-pass-alongphrasal-verb-sharephrasal-verb-spreadphrasal-verb-relayphrasal-verb-hand-over
Browse Human Communication Phrasal Verbs
Human Communication Phrasal Verbs - WeeklyCross
Alessandra Nóbrega
About the Author

Alessandra Nóbrega

History teacher who fell in love with English! This passion led me to specialize in languages and work on bilingual education projects. With 37 years in education, I believe learning should be meaningful – not just memorization.

Learn more about my journey



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